The University of Twente invites applications for two PhD positions in the Department of Molecules and Materials, focusing on the development of degradable polymers with in-situ optical sensing as part of the national GroenvermogenNL HyFINE initiative. HyFINE is a collaborative project uniting academic and industrial partners to advance green chemistry, aiming to shift from fossil feedstocks to sustainable sources and achieve climate-neutral, circular production of chemicals for adhesives, paints, plastics, and cosmetics.

As a PhD student, you will be at the forefront of research on degradable polymers, leveraging organic chemistry to modify polymers using green hydrogen, electrons, and photons. Your work will involve systematic studies of molecular structure-degradation correlations, optimization of light sources for polymer degradation, and the development of in-situ optical sensing platforms (including UV-VIS and Raman spectroscopies) to monitor degradation rates. You will collaborate closely with industrial partners to source starting polymers, access biodegradation testing platforms, and receive guidance on targeting material properties for real-world applications.

These positions offer the opportunity to make a real-world impact by upscaling synthesized materials and building sensing platforms for industry-relevant testing. You will benefit from world-class facilities at the University of Twente, a vibrant campus equipped with state-of-the-art research infrastructure. The research will be conducted under the guidance of Prof. Frederik Wurm and Dr. Ivana Qianqi Lin in the Sustainable Polymer Chemistry and Hybrid Materials for Opto-electronics group, alongside industrial researchers from BASF and SULIS Polymers.

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) at the University of Twente is renowned for its research in chemical technology, applied physics, and biomedical technology, with a strong emphasis on sustainable energy, process technology, materials science, nanotechnology, and technical medicine. The faculty fosters internationalization and boundaryless collaboration, working intensively with industrial partners and researchers both in the Netherlands and abroad.

Successful candidates will be appointed for four years as PhD researchers, with a competitive salary ranging from €3,059 gross per month in the first year to €3,881 gross per month in the fourth year. Additional benefits include holiday allowance, year-end bonus, pension scheme, parental leave, support for re-housing and immigration, and access to recreational and sports facilities on campus. Professional and personal development programs are available through Graduate School Twente.

Applicants must hold a BSc or MSc in Chemistry, with proven skills in polymer synthesis, organic chemistry, and optics. Experience with sustainable polymer solutions, biopolymers, and bio-/photo-degradation is desirable. Fluency in English, strong motivation for scientific research, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential. Applications should include a personal motivation letter, detailed CV, one reference from a former supervisor, and academic transcripts. The selection process will involve an interview and a scientific presentation.

For further information, visit the group page or contact Prof. Frederik Wurm or Dr. Ivana Qianqi Lin. Apply online by March 31, 2026, to be considered for both positions. Join us in shaping the future of sustainable materials and technologies!